Provaris Energy, the company developing Tiwi Islands’ 2.8 GW solar-powered green hydrogen project has submitted an Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Referral to the federal government for the project.
The project is set to be developed on Melville Island off Australia’s northern coastline. The facility aims to generate and supply power to an electrolyzer. The electrolyzer will be capable of producing well over 100,000 tonnes of green hydrogen in a year. The hydrogen will be manufactured through the process of electrolysis of seawater that has been purified.
Also Read: Plans set for construction of Mid West offshore wind farm in Australia
For starters, the development expects to observe well about 500 MW of solar generation. However, as the renewable hydrogen market expands, it will increase to 2.8 GW.
Tiwi Islands 2.8 GW solar-powered green hydrogen project timeline
Earlier on in the year, Provaris lodged a referral submission with the Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority. Thus, tHe Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation referral marks the project’s second phase of the environmental assessment process. Later this month, the company expects to receive a decision from the EPA.
The Executive Director and Chief Development Officer of Provaris ENergy spoke about the project. Garry Triglavcanin said that the referral’s preparation serves as a demonstration of the project’s focus on sustainability. Moreover, it also serves as an assurance that the project’s development will be in an efficient and safe manner. In addition to ensuring minimal social as well as environmental impact.
Construction works for the project are set to commence in 2024. Upon completion and operation, the first hydrogen production will then begin by early 2027.
